Saturday, May 30, 2009

shadows in the dark...



When I was a little girl, I admit that I may have been a bit different, shall we say. Although it shames me to admit, I was afraid of my shadow. I just could not understand why it kept following me around and immitating everything I was doing. I mean, how incredibly annoying.

I'd be walking down the street and all of a sudden, out of no where, it would POP right up scaring the dickens out of me. No warning whatsoever.

Let's not even think about times when I had 2 shadows...depending on the angle you are to the source of light, you can have more than one shadow. Now that, my friends, was freaky. If there was only one of me, why would there 2 shadows? Jumbie a follow me.

But nowadays, I peep through fences trying to capture the beauty of shadows in the dark.

How far we've come, eh?

Friday, May 29, 2009

rainbow stripes...














This is the gas storage tank which supplies the residents of the City of Boston. For ever, its rainbow stripes have caused tremendous controversy around beantown and beyond. "Why?", you wonder. It is said that the artist painted a subliminal profile of Ho Chi Minh in the blue stripe.

Can you see him?

Thursday, May 28, 2009

Conscious Friday: contemplation...

some times, I contemplate
closing the doors of my necessary room
but for today, i'll just be still
and enjoy the sounds of Conscious Friday


*Burning Spear: Rasta Business


*Midnite: Rasta to the Bone


*Stephen Marley: Hey Baby feat. Mos Def



*Have a Conscious Friday and a divine weekend...

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

hop on board, the pet parade...

Ok, not exactly my personal pets but don't all wildlife deserve to be our pets?














A remnant, but still my pet...













*Pet Parade is co-hosted by Planet M Files and Red or Gray depends on the day. Thanks ladies!

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

summer is almost officially here...














Now if the pollen would just go away!

Monday, May 25, 2009

Inspirational Monday: have a closer look...

I woke up Saturday morning and had the most brilliant surprise from Gayle at Planet M Files. It put me in quite a glorious mood. Thanks Gayle!

So, I'm going about my day, minding my own business, when what should I happen upon? My daughter discovers yet another wondrous aspect of Mother Nature.

Curiously, we climbed to a higher vantage point for a slight peek...tucked inside the top rung of a ladder was this nest with 4 new fledgling american robins. These robins return to the same spot each year to build their nest and raise their young. It is said that robins are monogamous only during the breeding season so presumably, the male picks up a new chick, I mean mate, each year. Must be nice. Hey, but then again, so does the female (wink).














We watched closely as the baby robins begged for food. Oh, the silent cry. We returned to our seat for the rest of the show.














Within minutes, Mama bird returns with the first course of their meal. She was a bit skeptical of us watching from a distance but once she decided we meant no harm, the feast was on.














The babies gobble up their seemingly tasty treat and immediately beg for more. Soon Papa bird returns with the second course. So glad I'm not a baby bird, and definitely even happier I'm not that earth worm.















After daddy flies away to hunt more delicacies, my daughter has another close look (but definitely no touching) before we return home to roost.

As if I needed yet another reason to be inspired by my daughter's love for Mother Nature. Her existence in my life challenges me to take a closer look and appreciate the small things around me.

*Happy Memorial Day!

*Inspirational Monday is hosted by vchelle at Operation You.
*Macro Monday is hosted by Lisa at Lisa's Chaos.

Sunday, May 24, 2009

the joys of spring...








Hope you are enjoying your weekend...
One Love.

p.s. for me, today is all about the indy 500 and nascar race day.
*my daughter's picks: danica & dale jr!
*i'm all about dario franchiti & smoke...and all my other boy toys.

Saturday, May 23, 2009

enjoying life, regardless...














I met this man the other day
wheelchair bound,
still ready to play.

*Happy Memorial Day weekend to all.

Friday, May 22, 2009

Conscious Friday: still breathing...

*Luciano: It's Me Again JAH


*Midnite: JAH Ovah


*Bob Marley: Forever Loving JAH


*Give thanks, oh JAH, for health, strength, family, friends (new and old), a job, life...and lucky number 7: all of you for the positive vibes ionizing the air in my necessary room. I appreciate all your kind thoughts, comments, and words of encouragement.

*What are you thankful for today?

Wishing you a Conscious Friday and a divine long weekend...

Thursday, May 21, 2009

chalk it up...















pssssst...summer is coming...

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

air, where hath thou gone?














When I was a young girl, I had an impossible ongoing debate with my mother. The foundation of such divide: I believed I could see air. Yes, you got that right, AIR. No matter how many ways she tried to tell me that air was invisible, I insisted. "You may not be able to but, I, obviously am more special because I can see air.
(I know what you're thinking: "you are special alright" ;-)

Having grown just a teeny bit, I have come to value the existence of air in a completely different way. It's invisibility is now often felt rather than seen.

As a teenager, I distinctly remember watching my mother clutch my baby sister in her arms as she coughed, wheezed, and gasped for air. She would take my sister into the steamy bathroom where we all waited as time stood still for her to breathe normal again.

It was not for want of seeking medical attention that my sister's asthma went undiagnosed for years. But like my grandmother who treated mostly with natural remedies, my mother employed any and all natural remedies at her disposal to keep my sister breathing, alive. Years later when my sister was finally diagnosed with asthma, we were introduced to the nebulizer.

Although the years slowly went by, every spring when my seasonal allergies were in hyperactivity, I would notice that it felt like someone was sitting on my chest. That person grew noticeably heavier each year and the simple act of breathing became a bit more challenging. Air, where hath thou gone? I went to see my sister's allergist in search of an answer and was told that I had asthma.

Although I had not given much thought before to asthma in and of itself, it was now brought to the forefront of consciousness. My aunt, who I could relate to on every conceivable level, also lived with asthma. She and my sister were invaluable in my crash course education. We began having in-depth discussions, especially following an episode, and in great detail we would explain what an asthma attack felt like. Some how, listening alone, was enough.

I now can never forget when my aunt was having an awful week with seemingly nonstop asthma attacks about eight years ago. She went to the hospital to seek medical attention. She was released shortly thereafter as she emerged from immediate distress. That night, as was custom, we spoke on the telephone.

She described the preceeding asthma attack in these exact words:

"Girl, it felt like I was taking my last breath."

"Auntie, don't worry. You know that's how it feels," I said. "Make sure tonight you have the medicine already set up in your nebulizer. Go to bed and get some rest. I'll call you in the morning to see how you're feeling then. I love you."

Around 2 a.m. the next day, my aunt had her final asthma attack. She took her last breath at home, on the nebulizer, waiting for the ambulance to arrive.

Monday, May 18, 2009

blessings and thanks...














I wanted to acknowledge and thank EVERY ONE OF YOU for all the love and support you've shown me over the past week especially. You created a virtual blanket of love that comforted my soul when I needed it most. It was definitely uplifting and a true testament to the power of positive vibes. Give thanks!

I thank vchelle of Operation You for all that you are and all that you do. You are truly a jewel and my everflowing source of peace and love. Thanks for always having my back. I love you with my BIG heart all the way to God's house!

I thank Christina of Soul Aperture for volunteering to help out as a guest blogger when I was in the throws of asthma attacks daily and physically unable to maintain. You started me on a trip around the world and it surely was just what the bush doctor ordered. You are a treasured soul and true friend. Big up!

I thank sunnymama of sunnydaytodaymama for having me as a guest today to celebrate our new friendship with a nature walk. And thanks to all of you who came along for the ride.

I thank Wanda of what would wanda do for all the great advice you have given me. I really, really, thank you Sis. You know wassup.

I thank Anali of Anali's First Amendment for entertaining me yesterday. Wanna know how many lawyers it takes to load a bobbin in a sewing machine? click here.

I can go on and on with the names but I'm feeling a bit jet-lagged.

I feel graciously blessed to have all of you in my life.

I hope to come up for air soon but I just needed to take a moment to give thanks.

One Love.

*And remember, this month is Asthma Awareness Month.

Sunday, May 17, 2009

Inspirational Monday: to new friendships...














I'm off to the U.K. !!!

Okay, perhaps only vicariously...but that still counts right? I have been invited as a guest over at sunnydaytodaymama to celebrate Inspirational Monday.

I would greatly appreciate if you also came along with me for the visit. Thanks so much. I look forward to seeing you at sunnydaytodaymama.

*A celebration of Inspirational Monday would not be possible without the creative spirit of my treasured SisterFriend vchelle over at Operation You. She invented Inspirational Monday as a way to start off the work week with something uplifting. Everyone is invited to participate by leaving their comments and/or links of inspiration over at Operation You.

smokin'...













sometimes, it's the simple things in life.
a number. 14. a word. smoke.
a smokin' hot race car driver
a million dollar victory
his first win this season
his first win as an owner-driver
his first win of the all-star race
go smoke. you show 'em
how to drive it like you stole it

Congratulations to my favourite Nascar driver.
Tony Stewart, aka, SMOKE !!!

Saturday, May 16, 2009

for isaiah...














four months after your senseless murder
there still has been no arrest
your family and friends cry for you
they cry for answers
they cry for want of justice
they cry, because today is the day
your body is finally being laid to rest
and it just is too soon

sleep, angel, sleep...

Friday, May 15, 2009

after the storm...

the moment of silence, after an asthma attack
where you listen to the sound of your breath
and give thanks that you are still breathing...















*Wishing you a Conscious Friday and a divine weekend.

Thursday, May 14, 2009

Conscious Friday: Dem Got Lyrics...

*Duane Stephenson: Cottage in Negril


*Richie Spice: A No Me Dat


*Jah Cure: As long as I live

the next best thing (at least for today)...

One might argue that hopping on the next thing smoking to Jamaica isn't the most practical thing to do at this very moment, given certain parental responsibilities. But after reading Christina's guest post, the water's edge kept beckoning me. What's a girl to do? I gave in. Aaaahhhh...



Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Much Love to Christina...

Give thanks to Empress Christina of Soul Aperture
for gracing the walls of my Necessary Room.
Your visit today was unforgettably enjoyable.
I will hold it close to my heart forever.

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

guest blogger


Lately the sunsets that have eased through my window screen, head straight to my heart.
Yes they do ; )
My eyelids close; my lips form an immediate smile of approval. I welcome in the warmth of the sunset, allowing it to take me home.
A home where...
grandmothers share stories and love
hands are thrown up in gratefulness to Jah
hammocks swing over sandy beaches and lovers footprints
rum scented breezes call my name
yam colored skies burst with salty rainbows
caramel colored dreads swing along the spines of kings
bob marley serenades me underneath the needle of an old record player
hips can't help but find da beat
ah yes the sunset, it takes me by the hand and invites me to paint the most beautiful picture of home.
; )
I want to thank SE'LAH for inviting me over, and allowing me to play at her house. ; )
I love you the most, dear friend.
One love
Christina

May is Asthma Awareness Month...

These days, I haven't had the energy to write much on my blog. The spring is always a difficult time for me because I have asthma. So much of my time is spent treating just so I can continue to breathe. Anyone know a natural cure? Old wives tales welcome ;-)



Monday, May 11, 2009

Inspirational Monday: A few finds...

I so enjoy exploring nature with my daughter and nephews. We took a relaxing walk through the children's garden at the New York Greenway, making a few stops along the way. (click on any photo to enlarge)

We just sat in silence...and listened to the sound of water...













My daughter thought this tree stump looked like the replica of a city. Can you see it?













Suspended at least 20 feet from a tree by a silk thread, almost invisible to the eye, was this resilient creature. The children had an ongoing debate as to whether it is an inch worm or a caterpillar. We watched it dance as the wind blew. It's amazing how it kept hanging on by that slither of a thread totally disregarding the strength of the wind...a lesson in life to never give up!












Most people certainly walked right on by this snail. Slow and steady wins the race.













And what's a garden walk without the gratuitous flower shot? The menagerie of scents was oh so inspiring.













*Inspirational Monday is hosted by vchelle at Operation You.

Friday, May 8, 2009

A few stolen moments is all that I'll share...

Ok, maybe a bit dramatic but the song is in my head...

Today was a big day. It was the "Daddy-Daughter" dance at my daughter's school. The only thing that could possibly distract me as I set out this morning was Mother Nature's beauty.













When I returned home, my youngest sister helped me prepare my daughter for her big night. After lots of photos, we arrived at the school. As soon as we entered, her little friend ran over, grabbed her hand and they took off.













They danced to every genre you could think of, including Irish step dance.













Tired of dancing, they ran around the dance floor giddy with excitement. And since my daughter is a very outgoing, energetic child, naturally, we made sure she wore shorts under her pretty little dress. You never know what to expect with her and I just love it. Yes, this is exactly what it looks like...she climbed the retracted bleachers, purse in hand.












She did save the last dance for her daddy though.













On the way home, she couldn't help pointing out the reflection of Anansi's globe of light in the marsh. Could there possibly be a more fitting exclamation point on the festivities tonight? Hmmm....












Why yes! There was a little visitor waiting for me on my doorstep. Somehow, Mr. Potato head made it across the Canadian border into the US without a passport. He is really exhausted from his long, arduous journey. He had a few close calls but somehow he managed to arrive safe and sound. Thanks Souers Du Jour!!! ;-)

Thursday, May 7, 2009

Conscious Friday: Weekend's Here...

*Luciano: All In This Together
(feat. Louie Culture & Terror Fabulous)


*Tarrus Riley: Africa Awaits


*Burning Spear: African Postman (Live)

Happy, Happy Spring...

Hey, do you remember when I told you that I will clench to Mother Nature's beauty even as she sucks the breath out of me? Well, I'm doing it now. I have spent the last few days with a nebulizer as my best friend. And I just can't stop going outside to admire Spring's beauty. Can you understand why?






















And driving along, I couldn't help admiring this. Even children begin marking their own territory in this seasonal dance. (Kid's Club 2009)

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

I have to tell myself...

Stay focussed...












Don't be negative...




Get the picture?





Yes, Mama's got a brand new toy!!!

Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Would you want help?...

A few weeks ago, I read about a woman who was brave enough to pack up her 3 children and face the uncertainty of living on the streets of San Francisco in order to escape living with domestic violence.

I couldn't help giving thanks that I didn't hear about K. as a result of tragic news where murder was involved as we see so frequently today. She escaped!

TANGOBABY has asked us to help her find reliable housing for K. and her family since the city has failed to provide necessary aid given her dire circumstances. Emergency Shelters have rejected her because of the size of her family.

Fortunately, K. sleeps in a bed temporarily because of your generosity but she still needs our help. Please take a moment to read the embedded links in this post and help in any way you can. You can find suggestions as to what is currently needed most by K's family on TangoBaby's blog.

Sunday, May 3, 2009

Inspirational Monday: You Inspire Me...

I have been blessed to be surrounded by real, heartical, genuine friendships in my life. Throughout challenging times, I am reminded just how true my friendships are. To my circle, love you to infinity (and beyond).

When I was uncertain about the blogging thing, you gave the support I needed to rise above. You are always there, encouraging me...no matter how downright crazy some of my ideas are. Nah move an inch! Together, without even knowing it, you've all made a dream become reality.

Opening up the doors to my Necessary Room to others was definitely uneasy at first. But those who dare to open those doors, reason for a moment and then return again, I applaud you.

I just received this "Premio Dardos" award from one of my favourite blogs, Sunnydaytodaymama.

This award is for "bloggers who distinguish themselves for showing cultural values, ethics, great and fun writing skills, as well as individual values, through their creative writing."

Not only am I honoured to receive this prestigious award, but I am going to award a few other bloggers with this award. I've been planning to acknowledge seven of my favourite bloggers so this is as opportune a moment as any to do so. Why 7? It's my favourite number. For sure, I have more favourites than listed below but thought I'd acknowledge a selected few in this first award ceremony. So, without further ado, I hereby bestow a "Premio Dardos" Award on the following blogs:

Operation You: My angel, you are my dose of positive. You bring calm and peace wherever you trod. Your neverending, everflowing love and support means more to me than you'll ever know. Just when I think you can't be any nicer, you go and do something nicer. Insulin shot! Love you Sis!

Soul Aperture: When I *felt* your spirit, you reminded me that friendship can be formed through penmanship. You are wonderfully talented in all aspects and a genuine soul. You've given me support, advice and shared your very tasty recipes. Give thanks my Soul Sistah!

Souers Du Jour: Jew got soul...you two sisters have stolen my heart. I keep going to your blog to search for it and simply keep losing it there again. One Love.

Gabrielle Kai Photography: You know I think your work is divine. You have inspired me beyond words. Thanks so much for answering all my questions and giving me all the advice without hesistation.

sunny day today mama: I know you gave me this but you are equally deserving. Your freedom of spirit is intoxicating. Thank you for your kindness. I appreciate you.

red or gray depends on the day: You've got beautiful words that flow from your being and they've touch my heart. Your photographic talent is also amazing. Thanks for your continued presence.

tangobaby: When you posted the K.'s story, you became indelibly imprinted in my consciousness. Remember when I said, "Always look to the bright side of life because every once in a while, you will cross paths with one of His angels." Well, you are one of them.

Likkle more...

*Inspirational Monday is the brainchild of vchelle over at Operation You. All are invited to participate by leaving a link/comment of what inspires you.

Saturday, May 2, 2009

Here's what I am going to do differently...

NOTHING !!!

I love insulating myself from the news programmes. Call me an ostrich with her head in the sand but really, I can do without the sensationalisation and promotion of the fear factor among the general population. You really don't want to see me amp'd up, especially since I am already a hypochondriac and super-germophobe.

The other day, I received this email from an old friend:

"Swine Flu....are you serious? I mean really....as if moms of young children don't have enough to worry about!! You can only imagine the stock of sanitizer I have now!! ICK!! If it hits GA, which I pray it doesn't, I'll have to find a bunker at the CDC!! So disgusting!"

My response?

"LMAO...the CDC stores every germ known to mankind. U might wanna find a bunker elsewhere."

This Rastawoman basically let JAH, my heart, commonsense, a healthy diet, good hygiene (and maybe a little germophobia still) guide my steps, rather than the media. Works great for me.

So, go ahead. Enjoy life. Every day. Every moment.

Fear does not live here. Rasta does.















*Midnite: Propaganda


*Please visit TANGOBABY and read the story of a homeless mother of 3 young children, K., who is escaping her domestic violence situation by living on the streets of San Francisco. The scheduled airing of her story on the news was initially postponed by yet another report on the swine flu. As of date, the city has yet to provide her and her children with necessary aid. With the outpouring of love and support from Julie and individuals, just like you, K. and her children has been able to remain housed temporarily through your generous donations. Please help her if you can.

**Reminder: There's only 1 day left until the 2009 Walk For Hunger.

Friday, May 1, 2009

Conscious Friday: Roots...

*Culture: JAH Rastafari


*Israel Vibration: Lift up your Conscience


*Dennis Brown: So Jah Seh


Have a Conscious Friday and a divine weekend.